I like to think of myself as pretty intuitive.
For example, I can predict which self-checkout lane will malfunction before I even load my groceries. Retail-based clairvoyance is not a skill I wanted, but it comes in handy.
I can also walk into a restaurant and know—just by the vibe—that we’re about to have terrible service. It’s a gift. Or a curse. Hard to say.
Jealous?
That said, I don’t need intuition to know that if you’re reading this, it’s probably for one of two reasons. Either:
- you’ve never had a website management plan and have no idea what to look for (how would you?), or
- you got burned in the past—and this time, you’re determined to make a better choice.
Choosing the right website management plan doesn’t have to be difficult or stressful. Once you know what to look for—and what questions to ask—you can evaluate your options with clarity and confidence.
Let’s walk through how to do exactly that.
Learn more about our monthly website management plans and contact us to talk about the plan that’s right for you.
Office: (844) 972-6224 Contact Us
Key Takeaways
- There are a few fundamentals that every website management plan should include: backups, security updates, basic content updates.
- Understand how much you will be charged for work that falls outside your monthly website management plan.
- Make sure that you are getting a plan that’s right for the type of website you have (and its functionality).
- Think long-term and find out what other services are offered by the website manager you are considering. You may need additional services one day.
- You’ll get the best results (and the best experience) when you have one point of contact that knows your website and your business.
- Good communication is key to successfully and efficiently maintaining a website.
- As the owner of the website, your website management provider should always give you top-level access to your hosting account, domain registrar, and CMS dashboard.
Here’s what to look for—and what to question—before choosing a website management plan.
1. Start with the Basics
At a minimum, look for comprehensive website management plans that include:
- Backups (daily, with one-click restore)
- Security updates (plugins, core files, theme)
- Basic content updates (copy changes, images, adding new blog posts)
Any reputable monthly website management plan should cover these essentials. If it doesn’t? It’s not a plan. It’s a liability. Without these fundamental services, you’re paying for peace of mind you don’t actually have.
There are many website management options. Choose wisely.
2. Understand the “Beyond the Basics” Costs
Here’s something people don’t think about—until they’re stuck.
What happens when you need something extra? A new landing page. A donation form. Fresh product descriptions. These often fall outside standard monthly website management plans—and that’s okay. But transparency is key.
Do you know what those extra services will cost?
Ask for hourly or “extended service” rates up front. Some companies charge full hourly rates for any work outside your plan. Others, like us, offer reduced hourly rates for existing clients—because ongoing relationships should come with benefits.
Another option for those “beyond the basics” needs? A premium or customizable website management plan. These plans are designed to include more frequent updates, content creation, or SEO work as part of your monthly subscription. They’re a smart choice if you know your website will need frequent, in-depth attention.
Whether you’re paying as needed or upgrading your plan, the goal is to get the level of service you need while avoiding surprises.
3. Is the Plan Right for Your Type of Website?
Your website’s needs aren’t generic—so your website management plan shouldn’t be either. What works for an online store won’t work for a nonprofit. A startup’s priorities look nothing like those of an established business.
Before you commit, make sure the plan is designed to support your website’s goals and functionality.
E-commerce sites? They need more oversight, frequent updates, and specialized support. The best website management plans for e-commerce sites take into account the complexity of payment systems, inventory, and customer portals.
Nonprofits? Your site’s lifeline is donations. Website management plans for nonprofit organizations should focus on maintaining donor forms (and payment processors), event calendars, and SEO strategies that keep your mission visible.
Startups? You’ll need flexibility. Customizable website management plans for startups help ensure you’re not locked into something you’ll outgrow in six months.
Don’t let a cookie-cutter plan limit your website’s potential. Make sure your web management plan fits your business model and goals.
Let’s talk about your website needs and goals. Contact our friendly office today!
Office: (844) 972-6224 Contact Us
4. Evaluate the Provider’s Full Capabilities
Not every agency or website manager offers full-service support. Some focus strictly on basic maintenance. That’s fine if your needs never change. But most businesses don’t stay static.
If your website manager can’t help you with things like SEO, design updates, or creating new content, then you’re stuck. Either you manage multiple vendors (which is as fun as it sounds) or you try to do it yourself.
Here’s the thing: a limited scope translates to limited value.
A full-service agency? That’s a different story. They can help your website grow and evolve alongside your business—without you having to explain your goals to five different people.
So, when you’re evaluating website managers, ask:
- Can they help me with SEO strategy?
- Can they build new pages or refresh my branding?
- Can they write blog posts or optimize product descriptions?
- Can they handle a website overhaul if I need one?
Because the best website management plans aren’t just about maintenance. They’re about momentum–moving your website, and your business, forward.
Look for scalable website management plans for growing businesses. Your needs today will not be your needs next year. And a good partner will be ready when you are.
5. Know Who You’re Working With
One contact. One website manager. That’s what you need.
A dedicated website manager becomes your partner. They learn your business, your style, and your priorities. When you email, you’re not talking to a help desk. You’re talking to someone who knows your site inside and out.
Be wary of website support and management plans that pass your requests to “whoever’s free.” That’s not support. That’s roulette.
6. Prioritize Communication
Here’s the harsh truth: poor communication is rampant in this industry.
If your website manager doesn’t get back to you within a reasonable timeframe (24 hours is our rule), you’re not a priority.
You should never have to chase down your website manager. If they drop off the planet for weeks at a time, you’re wasting valuable time and money trying to keep track of a lost cause.
The best website managers are great communicators. You want to work with someone who not only responds promptly but also listens to your needs, translates them into actionable steps, and keeps you informed about progress.
When you’re evaluating a website management plan, ask upfront what their policy is on responding to questions and requests.
Whether you’re on a very basic website management plan or a premium one, responsive communication isn’t optional.
Reach out today to learn bout our website management services. Call us or send us a message through our contact form.
Office: (844) 972-6224 Contact Us
7. Keep Control of Your Website
One last, critical point: your website is yours.
No reputable provider should ever restrict your access to your hosting account, domain registrar, or WordPress dashboard (or Wix, SquareSpace, etc.).
Not giving you access? That’s a red flag. It’s also a tactic unethical companies use to keep you dependent.
At Emily Journey & Associates, we believe in equipping clients, not controlling them. A website management plan should make you feel empowered—not trapped.
Choose Wisely
Choosing a website management plan isn’t just about finding someone to “keep things running.” It’s about choosing a partner who can protect your investment, support your growth, and respond when you need them.
And yes—there are plans that do all of that.
If you’re tired of spinning your wheels, it might be time to find a plan (and a team) that actually works for you.
Let’s get you there.
Office: (844) 972-6224 Contact Us
